There's plenty to do in these Sandhill communities even if you don't golf. Take a family vacation just an hour away from home.

First of all, I don't golf. If I did, I might have discovered this North Carolina gem earlier. It's a shame that I waited so long, because believe me, you don't have to be a golfer to enjoy Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen, Mid Pines, Whispering Pines, Carthage and/or all of the little communities that make up the Sandhills of North Carolina.

Now it may be true that Monterey, California, took Golf Digest's top spot last year in the magazine's 50 Greatest Golf Destinations poll (St. Andrews, Scotland, where it all started, came in second), and the Sandhills got the third spot, but just ask anyone around here... this is REALLY Golf Central of the Universe.

Fair is fair, though, because even with more than forty courses in the area, golf is not the only recreational activity.

The tiny town of Cameron is touted as one of the best places in the country to search for antiques; you can relive history at The House in the Horseshoe, Malcolm Blue Farm and McLendon Cabin; watch horses go through their paces at the Pinehurst Harness Track, wander through the artisan wares at Pottery Country...

Activities for families are many. The kids will love the McKinney Fish Hatchery, and fishing on Lake McKinney. Take a carriage ride or hayride set up by Pinehurst Resort, or play miniature golf at Mini Pines. Rent bicycles.

Accommodation and dining in the area is world class. Pinehurst and Southern Pines has a wonderful selection of three and four-star lodging options, including everything from charming bed and breakfast inns to completely self-contained resorts.

To that end, look at the photo albums of four of the area's finest accommodation venues:

	The Carolina Hotel at Pinehurst Resort
	Holly Inn at Pinehurst Resort
	Pine Needles Resort - Home of the 2001 U.S. Women's Open
	Mid Pines Resort